Fitter Radio Episode 595 - Hayden Wilde and Hanne de Vet. It’s Race Week!
Dec 9, 2024
auto_awesome
This week features Hayden Wilde, a celebrated New Zealand triathlete, and his partner, Hanne de Vet, specializing in middle-distance events. They share their emotions and preparations for the IRONMAN 70.3 World Champs in Taupo. Hayden gives insights on the race course dynamics, discussing elevation and gear selection. The couple reflects on the pressures and excitement that come with race week, highlighting community support and personal experiences in their training journeys. Plus, they chat about the thrilling transition of athletes from short to middle-distance racing.
Athletes express a mix of pre-race nerves and confidence as they prepare for the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships in Taupo.
Weather conditions are a significant concern for competitors, with potential winds affecting race performance and necessitating strategic adjustments.
The dual role of athletes as competitors and public figures increases pressure, requiring them to balance performance expectations with media obligations.
Deep dives
Preparation and Pre-Race Nerves
Athletes express mixed feelings as they prepare for the 70.3 World Championships, with some focusing on their tapering, while others feel inadequately prepared. One host admits to feeling anxious about swim performance due to insufficient training volume leading up to the race, contrasting another athlete’s experience in Hawaii where he was more confident coming into the water. The conversation highlights the typical race week nerves as excitement builds, particularly with the influx of international athletes arriving for the event. Pre-race anxiety is acknowledged, although some feel ready and composed as race day approaches.
Anticipating Race Conditions
Weather conditions play a significant role in race preparation discussions, with athletes speculating about potential wind impacting performances during the event. The forecast suggests challenges that may arise during the race; one athlete recounts difficulties encountered riding the course due to previous windy conditions. The unpredictability adds to the excitement and apprehension, as athletes acknowledge that they need to adapt their strategies based on conditions on race day. Participants remain optimistic that regardless of the forecast, the lake temperature will be suitable, providing a favorable swimming environment.
Media Obligations and Athlete Experience
Athletes face the dual challenge of managing pre-race nerves while fulfilling numerous media obligations, which can be taxing. One athlete reflects on how fame and public recognition have changed since receiving accolades at previous events, noting an increase in media requests alongside heightened expectations from the public. The pressure to perform, particularly in a home event, is acknowledged, with athletes feeling a mix of pride and responsibility to represent their country. As they navigate their roles as both competitors and public figures, maintaining focus on training remains paramount.
Challenges of Professional Competition
The podcast reveals the intense competition faced by professionals transitioning to middle-distance races, with athletes comparing their experiences in various formats. There are discussions of the mental and physical challenges encountered in balancing the different demands of short course and middle distance racing. Conversations touch on the importance of adapting training strategies and managing racing dynamics in order to maintain performance across various event types. Ultimately, athletes are motivated to push their limits and refine their skills in pursuit of excellence.
Hopes for Race Success
As the conversation shifts toward predictions for the upcoming race, athletes express confidence in their preparation while remaining cautious about the tough competition. The chatter echoes aspirations to podium finishes, with specific emphasis on the top competitors both male and female. The potential for race dynamics to shift based on initial swim and bike performances is highlighted, reminding everyone of the importance of strategic positioning in races. The excitement for a thrilling contest is palpable as athletes look forward to experiencing the atmosphere of the world championship in their home country.
Bev chats to professional triathletes Hayden Wilde and his partner Hanne de Vet. We hear how they’re feeling ahead of the IRONMAN 70.3 World Champs in Taupo this weekend and Hayden gives us his views on how best to ride the course.
We meet Thomas Trollope, winner of the free race entry to IRONMAN New Zealand.
Bevan and Tim give their podium predictions for the weekend.
(0:07:10) – Free race entry competition to the Mooloolaba Triathlon 2025
(0:09:56) – Thomas Trollope – free race entry winner to IRONMAN New Zealand 2025